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Inspectors To Visit Disaster-Damaged Homes

Birmingham, AL -- Thirty-two inspectors are now in the field visiting
Alabamians who have registered for federal/state disaster assistance to
verify their losses, Gracia Szczech, head of recovery operations for the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), said today.

"The inspectors evaluate the extent of an applicant's damage and
help determine their eligibility for aid. This allows us to serve them
in the quickest and most efficient way possible," Szczech said. So
far, 784 inspections have been completed in the 32 counties designated
eligible for individual assistance.

Normally, FEMA housing inspectors will schedule appointments within
5 days following an application. If the applicant is approved for aid,
a check will generally follow 7 days after the inspection. The U.S. Small
Business Administration (SBA) also sends loss verifiers to inspect the
property of those who have submitted completed SBA loan applications.

Applicants will be asked to verify that they own or occupy the damaged
property, and that it is their primary residence. A mortgage statement
or lease agreement will usually suffice for proof of rental status or
ownership. Federal and state officials stress that under no circumstances
do inspectors request any form of payment for their work.

To avoid a delay in monetary assistance, it is wise for applicants to
keep their appointments with inspectors or, if unable to do so, to contact
FEMA on the toll-free line at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).
The number for those with hearing or speech impairments is 1-800-462-7585.

FEMA officials advise all applicants to get identification from anyone
claiming to be a damage inspector. "All of our inspectors and verifiers
carry photo identification," said Szczech. "If an inspector
is not displaying identification, ask to see it."